Vacuum the condenser coils at least once a year. Dust-covered coils impair the efficiency of compressor operation and increase energy use. The coils generally are accessible on the back or bottom of the unit.

Keep liquids in a refrigerator tightly covered. Evaporation may cause the refrigerator to work harder.

Do not let frost build up more than one-fourth of an inch in a manual defrost freezer. Frost acts as an insulator, making the unit work harder.

Replace door gaskets that don't seal tightly. An easy way to test gaskets is to place a dollar bill against the frame and close the door on it. If the bill can be pulled out with a very gentle tug or, worse yet, drops out on its own, the door requires adjustment or the gasket needs to be replaced.

Be sure the refrigerator is standing level so that the door seals properly. Use a level or a glass of water set on top to detect imbalance.

Keep your refrigerator compartment between 36-38 degrees Fahrenheit and the freezer compartment between 0-5 degrees Fahrenheit. Keeping temperatures 10 degrees Fahrenheit lower than these can increase energy use by as much as 25 percent (about $48 per year).

If possible, locate refrigerators and freezers away from direct sunlight and other warm air sources such as ranges and heating equipment. Don't put refrigerators and freezers in a garage. They're manufactured to operate in ambient temperatures (the same all year round), not temperature extremes.

Ceiling Fans
One of the most beneficial home energy savers throughout the year is a ceiling fan, which can circulate large amounts of air using the same amount of electricity as a single 100-watt light bulb.